No abstract

We developed and implemented a chiropractic remediation program to satisfy the need for objectively identifying and remediating clinical skill deficiencies. This remediation program experienced an increase in use in its initial 3 years of operation, indicating more inclusion of the program across the departments, clinics, and assessment. The outcome of remediation is still not clear because there are no consistent assessment measures in place to determine pre- and postremediation student performance.

Objective The purpose of this study was to survey awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, plus health disparities among complementary integrative health providers; chiropractors, naturopaths, acupuncturists, and massage therapists and secondly, examine how providers' sexual and gender identity correlated with that awareness. Methods An electronic survey was designed, which included demographic questions as well as closed-ended and Likert response items to measure provider awareness of LGBTQ+ patients and the health disparities they experience. Kruskal-Wallis H tests with pairwise comparisons were used to evaluate the differences between defined groups and their awareness of health disparities of LGBTQ+ adults and youth. Results The survey showed that most complementary integrative health care providers agreed that LGBTQ+ individuals experience discrimination and health disparities. However, providers are unaware of the specific disparities experienced in this population, including increased risk of substance abuse and mental health issues. Pairwise comparison tests demonstrated that providers that identify as a part of the LGBTQ+ community are often more aware of disparities than their heterosexual cisgender counterparts. Conclusion Complementary integrative health care providers demonstrated some general awareness of LGBTQ+ health disparities yet most providers lacked awareness of specific disparities that pose major health risks for this community. Cultural competency training specific to LGBTQ+ individuals is lacking and may explain some of the findings in this study. This suggests that education is needed, both in professional educational programs and in the health care community by way of conferences, webinars, and other opportunities.

This preliminary study found that in a sample of chiropractic program alumni of the University of Western States, there were no differences with respect to preference for the biomedical or biopsychosocial attitude and belief models. A better understanding requires a larger study comparing attitudes/beliefs with behavior in practice.